Question

What are some easy baking recipes which don't require an oven or microwave, only a stove top? How do they work (step by step)?

Answer 1

Certainly! Here are two easy baking recipes that can be prepared using only a stove top – no oven or microwave required. These recipes are perfect for when you want to bake something but don't have access to traditional baking equipment.

1. Stovetop Chocolate Cake: Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup boiling water

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

2. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir the wet and dry ingredients together until you have a smooth batter.

3. Place a large saucepan on the stove and fill it with about an inch of water. Place a heat-resistant bowl on top of the saucepan, making sure it doesn't touch the water (double boiler setup).

4. Pour the cake batter into a greased and floured 8-inch cake pan. Cover the pan with aluminum foil.

5. Put the cake pan on top of the heat-resistant bowl in the double boiler setup. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the cake cook on medium-low heat for about 30-35 minutes.

6. Check the cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

7. Once the cake is done, remove it from the heat and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a plate.

8. You can serve the cake as it is or dust it with powdered sugar or spread some chocolate ganache on top.

9. Stovetop Banana Bread: Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, vegetable oil or melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. If you like, fold in the chopped nuts.

4. Grease a loaf pan with butter or oil. Pour the banana bread batter into the pan.

5. Place a large, deep skillet or saucepan on the stove and add enough water to cover the bottom. Put a wire rack or a heat-resistant plate at the bottom to create a platform.

6. Put the loaf pan on the wire rack or plate. Cover the skillet or saucepan with a lid and cook the banana bread on low heat for about 45-50 minutes.

7. Check for doneness using a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the banana bread is ready.

8. Remove the pan from the heat and let the banana bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Both of these recipes use the heat from the stovetop to "bake" the cake and banana bread by creating a gentle, indirect heat similar to baking in an oven. The double boiler method ensures even and gentle heat for the cake, while the skillet or saucepan with a lid traps the heat and allows the banana bread to rise and cook. Enjoy your delicious homemade treats!